Crisantemo
Luis Alberto Spinetta
The Blooming Chrysanthemum: A Journey of Loss and Rebirth
Luis Alberto Spinetta's song "Crisantemo" is a poetic exploration of loss, introspection, and the quest for renewal. The lyrics are imbued with a sense of melancholy and longing, as the narrator reflects on a past love and the emotional void left behind. The opening lines, "Tócame junto a esta pared / Yo quedé por aquí / Cuando no hubo más luz," set a somber tone, suggesting a moment of stillness and darkness after the departure of a significant other. This imagery of being left in the dark metaphorically represents the emotional state of the narrator, who is grappling with the absence of light and love in their life.
The recurring motif of the chrysanthemum, or "crisantemo," serves as a powerful symbol throughout the song. In many cultures, chrysanthemums are associated with death and mourning, but they also symbolize rebirth and new beginnings. Spinetta uses this duality to convey the narrator's desire to transcend their current state of sorrow and find a path to healing. The lines "Crisantemo / Que se abrió / Descubre el camino hacia el cielo" suggest that the blooming flower is a guide, leading the narrator towards a higher state of being or enlightenment. This metaphorical journey is further emphasized by the desire to "volar otra vez / En tu cuerpo sin mí," indicating a wish to rise above the pain and reconnect with a sense of wholeness.
The song also touches on themes of self-discovery and the search for meaning. The narrator's wish to "mirar a través de mi piel" and communicate through their very being reflects a deep yearning for authenticity and understanding. The chrysanthemum's blooming is not just a symbol of personal growth but also a reminder to rediscover one's own path and purpose. The repetition of the lines "Encuentra de nuevo tus pasos" reinforces the idea that, despite the pain of loss, there is always a way forward, a new journey to embark upon.